Japan urged to improve Internet access http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060705/ap_on_hi_te/japan_internet_2
TOKYO - Japan needs to improve Internet access and other mobile network systems to boost efficiency, creativity and productivity and overcome challenges posed by the aging and shrinking of its population, a government report said. The Information and Communications White Paper, approved in a Cabinet meeting, called for further efforts to build a "ubiquitous" network society and make good on earlier announced plans to make Japan the world's most advanced networking society by 2010. The number of Internet users through cell phones and other mobile terminals reached 69 million, surpassing the 66 million accessing through computer terminals at the end of 2005, the report said. Some 49 million use both. The report, issued Tuesday, said further development of networks could create more flexibility in working environment, with workers using video conferences or working from home. It could also create new jobs for specialists in management and outsourcing. The report noted, however, that there is a digital divide. Although Internet use last year surpassed 90 percent in Japanese between the ages of 13 through 49, it was less than 50 percent among people aged 65 or older. That is a major concern here. Roughly one in four Japanese will be 65 or older in 2015, and about one in three by 2050. That has already caused a labor shortage and revenue crunch because of the shrinking tax base. The government said the ongoing fusion between the communications and broadcasting industries will help support Japan's economic growth. Information and communication technology industries contributed to 40 percent of Japan's growth in 2004. Reply with a "Thank you" if you liked this post. _____________________________ MEDIANEWS mailing list [email protected] To unsubscribe send an email to: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
